KTM 990 Duke R 2025 - Presentation and Prototype Test

Visually, the KTM 990 Duke R 2025 harks back to its ancestors, both to its immediate predecessor, the KTM 890 Duke R, and particularly in its color scheme and orange accents to the second-generation models of the 990 SUPER Duke R (2011-2013). The striking design is completed by a glossy, powder-coated frame in "Electronic Orange," white trim, and matte black details. Almost as prominently as on its big sister, the KTM 1390 Super Duke R, the large "R" in black and orange proudly adorns the tank. The pillion seat cover comes as standard, but for those few individuals who wish to have a seat for the pillion (and the corresponding footpegs) on the 990 Duke R, which is naturally approved for two-person operation, they will need to browse through the PowerParts. The orange wheels have also been borrowed from the 1390 and complete the bike's design.

The seat height and ground clearance of the R variant each increase by 15 mm to 840 and 210 mm, respectively. According to KTM, the maximum lean angle of the 990 Duke R increases by 3 degrees compared to its standard sister.

KTM has managed to extract an additional 7 horsepower from the well-known parallel-twin engine with 947 cc. The peak power of 94 kW (130 hp) is reached at 9500 rpm, with the limiter kicking in 1000 rpm later. The maximum torque of 103 Nm at 6750 rpm is identical to the 990 Duke. This power increase results from an optimized mapping that fully unleashes the power of the EURO 5+-compliant LC8c engine and is intended to improve power delivery. Compared to the standard sister model, the overall weight has been reduced by 2 kg, bringing the 990 Duke R to 190 kg. This should make the 130 hp a breeze.

The KTM 990 Duke R 2025 differs significantly from the standard model in terms of electronic equipment, both in software and hardware. The new TFT display with touchscreen offers a diagonal of nearly 9 inches and allows for a "split-screen" view. For example, the expanded map navigation system can be displayed on one side, while the current speed and RPM are shown on the other. During the prototype test (more on that below), the unusually wide screen impresses with flawless readability and intuitive operation, even with gloves.

The new ABS modes "SPORT" and "SUPERMOTO+" complement Street and Supermoto and are designed to allow riders to get the most out of the bike on the road and the racetrack. There are also innovations in riding modes: In addition to Rain, Street, and Sport, the R features a freely configurable Custom mode. As usual, the optional Trackpack is available, which includes the Track mode with the display of the current lean angle and two additional custom modes.

The most significant change in the KTM 990 Duke R is found in the chassis, specifically in the shock absorber of the fully adjustable WP APEX suspension. For the first time, it is mounted via a linkage, as seen in the Super Duke, to enable sportier and more precise handling even at high speeds. The 34% stiffer open-cartridge USD fork has a diameter of 48 mm and offers a travel of 143 mm. The shock absorber provides separate high and low-speed compression adjustment and offers 140 mm of travel. This is 10 mm less than the 990 Duke, a change necessitated by the components required for the linkage.

One of the main criticisms of the 990 Duke was its braking performance. It simply couldn't keep up 100% with the sporty overall package. As hoped and expected, KTM doesn't skimp on the R model. The necessary braking power is provided by a Brembo braking system, consisting of Brembo Stylema calipers and a Brembo MCS master cylinder. Additionally, larger brake discs (320 mm instead of 300 mm) at the front ensure precise braking feel and good modulation—a system worthy of an R model.

The KTM 990 Duke R 2025 comes standard with the Michelin Power Cup 2 tires, which have already brought smiles under the helmet in dry conditions with its predecessor. Combined with the lightweight, distinctive orange rims (rear width 180 instead of 200) from the KTM 1390 SUPER Duke R, they should provide excellent traction.

In September, KTM invited a select group of journalists to a special event at their main factory in Mattighofen. On the first day, guests received a comprehensive tour of all production facilities, including the research and development department. The second day offered a ride with various prototypes, including a near-production prototype of the KTM 990 Duke R in matte black. I was fortunate enough to ride this on the magnificent Rossfeld Panorama Road for about 20 minutes.

During the short test ride with the R variant, I noticed that KTM has fine-tuned exactly the important points that were not entirely satisfactory with the 990 Duke. Chief among these is the brakes. The Stylema system fully does justice to the agile 990 Duke R, making sporty propulsion a pleasure. The suspension setup is particularly well-executed, offering transparency that is unmatched in the naked bike sector. The seat also directly conveys what is happening beneath the rider, which may test those seeking comfort. The quickshifter and the very precise gearbox also left a positive impression. The very wide display is quickly adapted to as well—it is exactly as wide as the triple clamp and integrates beautifully into the Duke's cockpit for all aesthetes. Everything else will need to be clarified in an intensive test in 2025. For those who can live with the bike's price and appearance, the 990 Duke R will be a hot contender in the middleweight class.

Starting in early 2025, the model will be available at authorized KTM dealers. The price of the KTM 990 Duke R, which, as is customary with KTM, has been given a nickname, namely "The Punisher," is not yet known.